Students’ Difficulties in Speaking English

Abstract

Speaking is an essential oral communication skill used to express ideas, emotions, or information to others. It is one of the most common forms of communication in daily life, whether in social interactions, education, or professional environments. The research was conducted using descriptive quantitative method with the target of 30 students from 2,4, and 6 semesters of English Education Program. Data was obtained by distributing questionnaires that had to be filled in by students as respondents. The result of this study show that students experience difficulties in speaking English. The difficulties experienced by students include limited vocabulary owned, low student understanding of grammar, lack of fluency when speaking English  spontaneously.  In addition,  students  also  reported  feeling anxious and insecure, especially when having to speak in formal or academic contexts. The daily environment that does not support the use of English exacerbates these conditions, resulting in low confidence and speaking ability. This study shows the need to improve English speaking in formal contexts and in the classroom. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that students read consistently, practice grammar and pronunciation regularly, and find friends to practice speaking with in order to improve fluency and confidence in speaking